Gold Coast Suns coach Damien Hardwick has acknowledged he went too far with his public criticism of umpires following a recent loss, leading to a significant conversation with AFL football operations boss Greg Swann.
The outspoken coach, known for expressing his frustrations, faced scrutiny for comments made after the Suns' away defeat to Geelong. Hardwick suggested the officiating was influenced by the crowd and the intense atmosphere at GMHBA Stadium when free kicks were awarded. While he avoided an official penalty or a 'please explain' directive from Swann, the feedback was clear.
Coach Accepts Responsibility
Reflecting on his tendency to wear his emotions on his sleeve, Hardwick admitted his difficulty in handling losses. He noted that his own mother has pointed out his intolerance for defeat throughout his life.
"I'm a horrible loser ... my mother has said that. I spoke to her again tonight and she always says, 'You've never tolerated losing well'."
Hardwick expressed appreciation for the manner in which Swann addressed the situation, emphasizing the value of a direct, personal discussion.
Swann Praised for Approach
"Swanny's a cracker. You've got to love him and that's why he's a great football person," Hardwick stated. "He's doing his job and obviously the umpires were disappointed. I have to be better with that."
"To his credit, he was very understanding of my point. But he made it very, very clear, Swanny, that I (overstepped) the mark. I commend him on his way that he does go about it having the conversation, no need for emails, no need for letters, just a man on man conversation. So I really appreciate it the point was very well made by the great man."
Tribunal Challenge and Form Slump
The Suns are also facing potential financial penalties from the league regarding an umpire contact charge against Daniel Rioli. The club plans to contest the fine at the tribunal. Should this challenge fail, it could result in a substantial AFL fine, potentially reaching $50,000, especially if it marks their fifth such infraction this season.
Hardwick defended the Rioli incident, suggesting the player had limited options when trying to evade an umpire while marking an opponent. Beyond off-field issues, the team's current performance is a significant concern, with Hardwick admitting they are not meeting expectations.
"Our clearance and contest game hasn't quite been to the level that it has been previously," he commented on their form. "It's just we haven't got it done ... make sure we get the game more in our forward half, as compared to attacking from the back half."
Humphrey's Future Impacts Performance
Adding to the team's challenges, Hardwick conceded that persistent speculation surrounding young player Bailey Humphrey's future beyond this season is affecting his on-field performance. He expressed sympathy for the pressure the young player is enduring.
"If I'm being honest, yes. The pressure on this young lad I love this kid ... he's such an emotional kid and he genuinely feels like he's letting the side down. (But) he walks on the field and I feel better about life, our fans feel better about life. I feel like it's an unfair thing. Just park your thought process, let's just get your footy up and talking."
